An Investigation of Extraordinary Experiences

摘要: For decades, park and recreation professionals have been creating opportunities for enjoyable experiences. However, the value of experiences is only now being widely recognized. Writing in Harvard Business Review, Pine Gilmore (1998) argued modern economies increasingly rely on experience as an important element economic exchanges. As such, it follows that providing exceptional experiences, or extraordinary can be a competitive advantage marketplace some organizations. In this paper, are defined those highly memorable, very special, emotionally charged. Park managers well positioned to provide although there gap between theory practice. Much existing research focuses novel tourist settings, while familiar everyday settings such municipal parks neglected. light this, purpose explore both hopes identifying particular aspects managed by park, recreation, tourism professionals. study, 89 were analyzed. Descriptions collected from undergraduate students participating study abroad programs China Uganda. Participants first asked reflect previous academic year describe detail up three wonderful, memorable occurred within college setting. similar fashion, participants recall traveling through Uganda China. way, captured. Analysis involved identification themes data might explain nature experience. Results suggest rare, occur settings. Important facilitators included challenging activities lead accomplishing meaningful goals, reaffirm strengthen social bonds, spontaneity, outside. Other played secondary role including evaluation, friends, reflection. outdoor adventure sports their challenging, cross-cultural also Secondary evaluation fabled Nile River. Last, wide range emotions appear independent setting typified These include but not limited anxiety, awe, excitement, happiness, harmony, inner peace, joy, nervousness, sadness, shock. Managerial professional implications discussed.